What experts want you to know

Friday

When asked, “What’s one thing you want people to know about breast cancer?” here’s what a few experts said:

“We are now living in the era of personalized cancer care. It is no longer one-size-fits-all, but each and every patient deserves a detailed evaluation and explanation, not only of their recommended treatment plan, but also the reasons and rationale for that plan.”— Dr. Dennis Citrin, medical oncologist at Cancer Treatment Centers of America, Chicago“Early detection matters. Get a mammogram.”— Dr. Harold Burstein, a breast oncologist at Susan F. Smith Center for Women’s Cancers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston

“Trust your doctors, realize that your cancer is 100 percent different from the next person’s cancer, and don’t let things you read or see give you fear or anxiety that you’re not getting proper treatment. I’ve been through this and I’m here today as your surgeon and as a survivor.”­— Dr. Alicia Vinyard, breast surgical oncologist at Georgia Cancer Center, Augusta

“It is important for patients and their loved ones to understand that the treatment of breast cancer requires coordination by a whole team of caregivers. There are many treatment options and each patient’s treatment plan is different, so it is important to build your team starting from the time you get the news of your diagnosis. This will help you to understand how the different parts of treatment (surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, targeted medication) all fit in with each other. I also recommend that patients bring a trusted friend or family member to their appointments since all the information can be overwhelming.”— Dr. Megan Kruse, associate staff, breast medical oncology, Cleveland Clinic

“Breast cancer is a disease associated with aging, and this will become more relevant over time with the aging of the U.S. population. We know that there are issues with both undertreatment and overtreatment in the care of older adults with breast cancer. We as oncologists must ask the question of how we can optimally treat patients to improve outcomes while minimizing risk. As health-care providers, we need to do our part in assessing our older patients, so that we can help them and their families make the best personalized decisions possible.”— Dr. Meghan Karuturi, assistant professor of breast medical oncology at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston

“While a cancer diagnosis can be a challenge, connecting with others in a similar situation either face to face, online or over the phone helps give patients a sense of control over what can be a chaotic and stressful situation.”— Licensed clinical social worker Sara Goldberger, senior program director at Cancer Support Community, the largest professionally led nonprofit network of cancer support services worldwide

“Unfortunately, breast cancer occurs in 1 in 8 women and has profound effects on the lives of those it touches. The good news is that we have made amazing strides in the screening and treatment of breast cancer. Every year, advances are made that not only improve survival but lessen the impact on a patient’s quality of life. However, the most important aspect of breast cancer treatment lies with the patient in performing routine screening mammography and being an advocate for their own health. The earlier we can catch the process, the better the outcome and less the patient may need to go through.” — Dr. John Kiluk, surgical oncologist at Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida“The interaction between lifestyle and both breast cancer incidence and treatment is underemphasized. My goal as a physician is to educate both the community as well as my patients in terms of nutrition, exercise and mindfulness. We have the power to prevent a substantial number of breast cancer diagnoses. In those already diagnosed with breast cancer, lifestyle changes can lessen toxicities during treatment and improve long-term health. The key is to eat a variety of plants, incorporate both aerobic and resistance training, and find a practice like meditation or yoga that fosters mindfulness.” — Dr. Amber Orman, radiation oncologist at Florida Hospital, Tampa“Access to some of the most promising advances is often limited by the rising cost of cancer care, including high drug prices. Patients are increasingly bearing the financial burden of care, often forcing them to choose between treatment and other fundamental needs. I am seeing more patients unable to afford optimal treatment, stopping treatment early, mortgaging their homes or even going into bankruptcy. … Patients should talk to their doctor about their concerns and also find out how much of the treatment costs they’ll be responsible for. Doctors are often reluctant to bring this up, but the patient deserves to know.”— Dr. Gary Lyman, oncologist, health economist and co-director of Hutchinson Institute for Cancer Outcomes Research at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle

Never miss a story

Choose the plan that's right for you.
Digital access or digital and print delivery.